Oceans For Emotions: How much do I owe you God?

By By Elaine Wheat
Dec. 28, 2012 at 6:28 a.m.

"For by grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is a gift of God."

- Ephesians 2:8

I was walking down the beach front instead of a shopping mall. I couldn't get away, for I saw a sign that read: "Heaven's Christmas Store." As I got a little closer, the door came open wide, and when I came to myself, I was standing inside.

I saw a host of angels, and they were standing everywhere. One handed me a basket and said, "My Child, shop with care as everything a Christian needs you will find in this store. And remember, if your basket gets full, you can always come back for more."

First, I got some patience; love was in the same row. Further down was understanding, and you need that everywhere you go. I got a box or two of wisdom; a bag or two of faith. I just couldn't miss the Holy Ghost for it was all over the place. I stopped to get some strength and courage to help me run life's race. My basket was getting full, but I remembered I needed grace.

I didn't forget salvation, for salvation was given to me free, and I tried to get enough of that to save both you and me. Then I started up the counter to pay my Christmas bill, for I thought I had everything to do my master's will.

As I went up the aisle, I saw prayer and I just had to put that in, for I knew that as soon as I stepped outside, I would run right into sin. Peace and joy were plentiful; they were on the last shelf. Song and praises were hanging near, so I just helped myself.

Then I said to the angel, "Now how much do I owe?" He just smiled and said, "Just take them everywhere you go."

Again, I smiled at him and said, "How much do I really owe?" He smiled again and said, "My child, Jesus paid your bill a long time ago. All he asked in return is for you to share with everyone as you go down your beach road."

Dear Lord, thank you for this and every Christmas. I now fully understand "The Master's Card."